Forklift Truck Classification
Forklift trucks have been working its magic for approximately 100 years now. Even now, this particular kind of machine is found in every warehouse operation throughout the world.
The very first forklifts were made as a result of manpower shortages that were caused by WWI. Businesses like Clark and Yale & Town introduced the material handling equipment which utilized powered lift tractors in their factories. During the year 1918, Clark saw the potential for these equipment and began selling them.
It was in the 1920s that the design of forklifts changed from a tractor with an attachment to a dedicated equipment that was equipped with a vertical lifting mast. The forklift developed and became more advanced with the Second World War. The forklift played an essential part during this time in the handling of supplies for different armies throughout the globe. It was also at this time that wooden pallets were introduced which solidified the need for the forklift in the material handling industry.
Forklifts gained momentum and continued to develop as soon as World War II ended. During the 1950s, forklifts that utilize batteries made an appearance. There were other more specialized types of forklifts introduced like for instance the Narrow Aisle Reach truck. This kind was made by the Raymond Corporation. During the 1960s and 1970s, improvements were made within the electronic controls area. This made forklifts a lot more versatile and companies were able to look at warehouse efficiency.
These days, the forklift can be powered by numerous fuel options such as diesel, electrical battery, gasoline, compressed natural gas or CNG, liquid propane gas or LPG. The first hybrid forklift was developed by Mitsubishi. It currently operates on diesel battery and lithium ion. This kind consumes 39% less fuel compared to existing models. Statistics prove that its carbon dioxide emissions are approximately 14.6 tons less compared to those forklift models that are powered by internal combustion or IC engines.